4 Things Parents Should Know About Scoliosis Treatment And Detection

Scoliosis ranks as one of the more prevalent spinal conditions with upwards of 6-9 million cases reportedly diagnosed in the United States, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.

That equates to 2-3 of the population and this curvature of the spine condition tends to manifest in youths between 10-15 years old equally among genders. According to research, over 600,000 people seek scoliosis treatmenteach year with 30,000 children undergoing bracing and 38,000 requiring surgery.

Given the seriousness of this spinal condition, early detection and scoliosis treatment are important factors to achieving the best possible health result.

1: Early Diagnosis Matters

Parents are advised to have early and regular checkups that include spinal oversight. Among the key reasons is the fact that children experience sudden growth spurts. Early detection can lead to a managed health plan that accounts for spurts and limits the resulting curvature.

Children in these formative years may also become more private about their bodies and less inclined to share changes they are going through. Scoliosis often starts as a painless condition. However, parents can watch for telltale signs such as uneven shoulders and hip alignment. It’s advisable to bring any signs to your primary care physician’s attention during regular checkups.

2: Scoliosis Has No Definable Environmental Cause

Many parents suffer feelings of guilt when their children are impacted by scoliosis. That may be because things like the common cold or strep throat have environmental causes that can be curbed.

Scoliosis is unlike other ailments because there is no method to stave it off. Poor posture, slouching and oversized school backpacks are in no way a cause of scoliosis. It just happens. Parents, you are not at fault.

3: Scoliosis Has Genetic Roots

This spinal condition tends to be passed along genetically. Unlike some other diseases, scoliosis can go undetected in mild cases for generations.

In practical terms, that means someone in your family likely had a case that didn’t present significant discomfort and went undiagnosed. The possibility of your child having scoliosis increases by about 20 percent if another family member had it, according to the Scoliosis Research Society. While it is generally passed along, it does have to begin with a first case. Your child may be the first in your family.

4: Scoliosis Can Become Critical If Left Untreated

In more severe cases, the rib cage can exert pressure on organs such as the heart and lungs. Adults who did not undergo corrective measures as children are likely to experience significant and ongoing back pain.

About 30 percent of patients need bracing and another 10 percent require corrective surgery. Early treatment has led to a high percentage of positive outcomes.

If you or your child are experiencing spinal discomfort, misaligned or pain, it’s imperative to consult with an experienced health professional. The Maimonides Health Center in Brooklyn provides scoliosis treatment for people in the New York City area.